TOMS RIVER, NJ – Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy, a Republican who once publicly expressed his “revulsion” for Donald Trump, met with the president at the White House on Monday, April 28, to witness the signing of four executive orders aimed at bolstering public safety.
The visit marks a notable moment for Mastronardy, whose past criticisms of Trump have been well-documented.In 2016, Mastronardy made headlines when he told the Asbury Park Press he was “revolted” by Trump, refusing an invitation to serve as a delegate for the then-candidate at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. The sheriff’s stance reflected his independent streak, as he has consistently prioritized principle over party loyalty.
Over the years, Mastronardy has praised former President Barack Obama and openly criticized Trump supporters who propagated 2020 election conspiracy theories or displayed fervent devotion to the former president.“Over the past decade, Mastronardy has not allowed his party affiliation to dictate his views,” the Asbury Park Press reported in a recent article.
“Since Trump left office last year, the sheriff has poked fun at 2020 election conspiracy theorists and those in the party who continue to profess an almost religious-like devotion for the former president.”
Despite his past remarks, Mastronardy, who serves as Vice President of the National Sheriffs’ Association, accepted the White House invitation to attend the signing ceremony.
The executive orders, which focus on enhancing law enforcement resources, improving community safety, and addressing violent crime, align with Mastronardy’s long-standing commitment to public safety in Ocean County.
The White House event was attended by several sheriffs and law enforcement leaders from across the country, underscoring the administration’s push to prioritize public safety initiatives. Mastronardy’s presence at the ceremony suggests a willingness to engage with the administration on issues critical to his role, despite his earlier criticisms of Trump.
Neither Mastronardy nor the White House commented on the sheriff’s past statements or the context of his visit. For now, the meeting represents a pragmatic step for a sheriff known for putting policy over politics, even as it raises eyebrows among those familiar with his outspoken history.